The dark side of virtual worlds
The risk of isolation and attachment to virtual characters, and how we design experiences that serve people rather than replace their relationships.
One idea circulating globally is to use highly realistic avatars, built from 3D face scans, to let users "talk" with loved ones who have died. It is compelling, but it carries a real risk: users becoming attached to a virtual person and withdrawing from their lives.
MetaLife's position is that technology should serve people, not replace their relationships. We work to build family awareness and responsible Arabic content, and our projects follow clear principles:
- Every experience has a defined purpose and a reasonable duration
- Nothing is built on exploiting grief or loneliness
- Experiences encourage real-world connection
Source: www.alnaharegypt.com